The weekly Farmers’ Market will close early Thursday as temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees.
The market will take place from 2 to 4 p.m., instead of 2 to 6:30 p.m., in the Belmont Center parking lot.
“Even though it will be hot, we’re opening in support of our farmers and other vendors, who have produce and products they have to sell,” Hal Shubin, chair of the Market Committee, said in statement. “And we want to be there for everyone who comes for food assistance: our $25 weekly SNAP match, the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), our own HIP+ program.”
SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. HIP+ is a Belmont Farmers’ Market program that offers $20 per month to anyone who signs up. It can be used to buy produce only.
The reduced hours are not the first of the season, though it is the season’s first planned early closure.
“I don’t like canceling ahead of time because of weather, because weather changes,” he said.
According to Shubin, the market closed 30 minutes early two weeks ago when dark storm clouds began to roll in. The market also closed suddenly in August 2024 due to sudden thunder and lightning.
The last planned early closure for excessive heat, however, was in 2024, he said.
“Needless to say, closing early isn’t good for the vendors,” Shubin said.
Before deciding to close, market organizers talk with vendors, beginning with farms, as farmers typically pick produce the day of the market, and pack it to sell it.
“It can stay in the field a little while longer, but not like a jar of sauce or frozen entree can wait until later,” he said.
This week, three farms will be present, as will most of the market’s other vendors.
“We’ve been in discussions with other markets around the state through our Facebook group,” Shubin said. “Some canceled, some are closing early, others are going to remain on the regular schedule.”
Cooling Centers
The following places have been designated as cooling centers during the heatwave.
Beech Street Community Center
Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Belmont Public Library
Wednesday, July 1 & Thursday, July 2: 9 a.m. 9 p.m.
Friday, July 3 & Saturday, July 4: Closed.